Participants of the Swim Trials in Omaha are hoping to make the U.S. Olympic team. Victoria Chidester isn’t competing, just surviving to make her dream come true.

Victoria's dream is just being at the Qwest Center. “I really don't know, I've got to grab the day and just go with it." She is soaking up each moment as a diehard fan. An avid swimmer, Victoria was diagnosed with stage four colon cancer two years ago.

"I love swimming, I love the feel of the water, it's very therapeutic for me to be in the water and even when I'm on chemotherapy, even though I am tired I modify. It's just very relaxing.”

Have no illusions says her husband Ray, it takes tenacity and perseverance, the same kind of qualities it takes to make the Olympic trials it takes to overcome cancer. Victoria has been competing in the master's level in Colorado, she even qualified for the nationals.

"Battling cancer, going through the chemo treatment, the recovery program then being able to compete at such a high level in the master's program says a lot about Victoria as a person and as an athlete,” says Ray Chidester.

She finished in the top 20 in three events and in turn made the cover of the United States Master Swimmers magazine. It's being at the Swim Trials and watching America's best that Victoria says is truly special.

"It's just mind boggling, it's that next step, just the world's elite people, the women are incredible, the men are absolutely incredible."

Victoria's accomplishments are worthy of the gold. Chidester, who is a 16-year swimming veteran, says she is doing well and her health is being closely watched by her doctor.